Locals seek EPZ, embankment as PM goes to Chandpur today

CHANDPUR (BSS): People in Chandpur have raised several key development demands, including the establishment of an Export Processing Zone (EPZ) and a permanent embankment, ahead of the visit of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman to the district today (Saturday).

The Prime Minister is scheduled to arrive here today to inaugurate the re-excavation of two canals and distribute Family Cards.

Ahead of the visit, Sheikh Farid Ahmed Manik, President of District BNP and Member of Parliament (MP) from Chandpur-3, presented the local people's expectations during a press briefing held on Friday on the Chandpur Government College campus.

The primary development demands include the establishment of an EPZ on approximately 200 to 250 acres of land, which the locals believe could generate employment for around 150,000 people and significantly boost the economy of Chandpur and neighbouring districts.

In addition, residents have called for the construction of a 60-kilometre permanent embankment along the Meghna River, as well as the continuation of the already approved Economic Zone project aimed at strengthening regional industrial growth.

Sheikh Farid Ahmed Manik said that the Economic Zone project has already been approved and that implementation work will proceed, dismissing what he described as misinformation regarding its status.

According to the officials concerned, the Prime Minister will inaugurate the Khorddo canal re-excavation in the Waruk area under Shahrasti upazila at noon, followed by the inauguration of the Bishwakhal canal re-excavation in the Ghosherhat area of Chandpur Sadar upazila at 1:45pm.

At 3:30 pm, he will distribute Family Cards and address a public gathering at the Chandpur Government College field, and later at 5:30 pm, he will hold an exchange of views with BNP leaders and activists at Chandpur Club.

The briefing was attended by District Parishad Administrator and District BNP General Secretary Advocate Salim Ullah Selim, along with leaders of the Chandpur Press Club and other media representatives.